Investigations of Different Methods to Promote Drug Mixing in the Eye

Citation

Huang, Jinglin Alice (2020) Investigations of Different Methods to Promote Drug Mixing in the Eye. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/741T-MN38. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:12122019-162434400

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of central vision loss in the developed world. In the case of wet AMD, it can be managed through serial intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. However, sometimes the treatment is ineffective. Given that half-life time of the drug is limited, one possible cause of the ineffective treatment is inefficient drug mixing in the eye. Here, we focus on the understanding of drug mixing in vitreous chamber and parameters that could potentially influence mixing profiles. Both movement-driven method and thermal-driven method are explored. The in-vitro study outcomes will not only be useful for achieving fundamental understandings of fluid dynamics in the eye, but also helpful in developing a better strategy for intravitreal injection and improving the quality of care for patients.

Thesis Files